10 Cheapest Places to Live In Georgia (2025 Guide)

Why are so many Americans moving to Georgia? One word: affordability. 

According to a 2025 Gallup poll, public anxiety about cost-of-living pressures has reached its highest level in over a decade. It’s no surprise, then, that affordability is playing a central role in where people choose to live. Over 7.5 million Americans moved to a new state in 2023, and for the second year in a row, Southern states have come out on top in terms of net migration.

New data from ConsumerAffairs shows that Georgia, specifically, ranks #6 for net migration interest in 2025, beating out popular destinations like Michigan, Arizona, and even Florida. Georgia’s affordable cities are ideal for those seeking lower housing costs, thriving job markets, and a better quality of life.

Whether you’re coming from out of state or already live here, this guide highlights the 10 cheapest places to live in Georgia. We’ve ranked them not just by cost, but also by key livability factors like walkability, median income, and real estate prices. 

Top 10 Cheapest Places to Live in Georgia

Living in Georgia is generally more affordable compared to most states. Though overall, Georgia’s cost of living is 4% higher than the national average, housing is a massive 22% cheaper than the national average, while healthcare and monthly utilities are 5% lower. 

Because of this, Georgia consistently ranks on lists of the cheapest places to live in the United States (not to mention one of the best places to live in the South). 

Here are the 10 most affordable places to live in Georgia: 

City Name	% Cheaper than U.S. Average	Population	Median AnnualIncome	Median HomePrice
Macon	17%	156,543	$50,747	$165,800
Albany	16%	67,939	$45,201	$118,700
Rome	15%	98,985	$62,540	$194,100
Columbus	13%	204,383	$56,622	$182,300
Augusta	13%	201,504	$53,134	$162,900
Dalton	13%	34,402	$61,236	$203,100
Dublin	12%	16,023	$40,417	$173,500
Brunswick	12%	15,248	$34,021	$128,300
Valdosta	11%	55,222	$45,849	$165,300
Statesboro	10%	92,112	$56,172	$181,500

Quick note: Aside from Columbus (our top pick), the cities below are listed in no particular order. After all, cost of living is just one part of the equation when you’re deciding where to move. Career opportunities, lifestyle, and community vibe all play a big role in where you’ll feel most at home.

#1: Columbus, Georgia

• Cost of Living: 13% below U.S. average
• Population: 204,383
• Median Annual Income: $56,622
• Median Home Value: $182,300

Columbus is a Fall Line city located about halfway down Georgia’s western border. Its prime location on the Chattahoochee River gives it gorgeous river views and beautiful natural scenery.

In addition to its natural beauty, Columbus is the second-largest city in Georgia behind Atlanta, offering the perks of a big city without the hefty price tag or traffic. 

Living in Columbus allows you to immerse yourself in lush parks and engage in exhilarating white-water rafting or kayaking adventures. The city also has a plethora of career opportunities with Columbus’ top employers, including Fort Benning, Aflac, and Synovus. 

There are so many great things to do in Columbus, from local museums, boutiques, craft breweries, and dining spots that will ensure you have a vibrant social life. Learn more about moving to Columbus, Georgia here.

#2: Augusta, Georgia

• Cost of Living: 13% below U.S. average
• Population: 201,504
• Median Annual Income: $53,134
• Median Home Value: $162,900

Nestled along the Savannah River, Augusta is one of the oldest cities in Georgia, founded in 1736 by British colonists. Today, August offers a low cost of living and perks like proximity to both the beach and the Georgia mountains, and easy access to interstates I-20 and I-520. 

Residents of Augusta will enjoy its mild winters and warmer summers, the U.S. Cyber Center of Excellence at Fort Gordon, and delicious Southern fare at Augusta’s numerous highly-rated restaurants. There’s even a Saturday Market on the river most of the year for all of your fresh produce and handmade craft needs.

#3: Albany, Georgia

• Cost of Living: 16% below U.S. average
• Population: 67,939
• Median Annual Income: $45,201
• Median Home Value: $118,700

Albany became popular in the 19th century due to its status as a shipping and market center and later became a hub for the Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s. The city has developed as a multinational industrial town on both sides of the Flint River.

As an Albany resident, you’ll enjoy fishing and hunting above the Floridan Aquifer and find community among the city’s friendly residents. Albany is also home to Radium Springs Garden, one of Georgia’s 7 Natural Wonders. Plus, the Greenway Trails RiverWalk is a gorgeous route to take for river views.

#4: Dalton, Georgia

• Cost of Living: 13% below U.S. average
• Population: 34,402
• Median Annual Income: $61,236
• Median Home Value: $203,100

Known as the “Carpet Capital of the World,” Dalton plays a major role in the global flooring industry. Over 30,000 people in the region work in carpet and textile manufacturing, and more than 90% of the world’s functional carpet is produced within a 65-mile radius of the city. Located along I-75 between Atlanta and Chattanooga, Dalton blends industrial strength with mountain-town charm.

Outdoor lovers will find plenty to explore nearby, from the trails at Fort Mountain State Park to stretches of the Chattahoochee National Forest. The surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains offer cooler temps, scenic drives, and weekend hikes that make it easy to unplug. With a cost of living 13% below the national average and home prices around $203,000, Dalton offers both opportunity and breathing room.

#5: Macon, Georgia

• Cost of Living: 17% below U.S. average
• Population: 156,543
• Median Annual Income: $50,747
• Median Home Value: $165,800

Right in the heart of Georgia is Macon, the second of Georgia’s three Fall Line Cities (the other two being the aforementioned Columbus and Augusta). It’s “Where Soul Lives” and offers plenty of Southern music, food, and culture.

Local farms and orchards provide fresh peaches and other produce to Macon’s residents, helping give Georgia the famous “Peach State” name. Outdoor lovers will also enjoy the beautiful Ocmulgee River that runs through the city.

#6: Statesboro, Georgia 

• Cost of Living: 10% below U.S. average
• Population: 92,112
• Median Annual Income: $56,172
• Median Home Value: $181,500

Tucked in southeast Georgia, Statesboro is best known as the home of Georgia Southern University—but it’s more than just a college town. There’s a strong sense of community here, where Friday night football games, local festivals, and downtown diners bring people together. It’s got just enough buzz to keep things interesting, without ever feeling overwhelming.

With the Ogeechee River nearby and plenty of parks and walking trails, Statesboro makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors. Farmers’ markets pop up regularly, and the cost of living stays comfortably low, about 10% below the national average, making it an appealing place for students, young families, and anyone looking to slow down without feeling stuck.

#7: Brunswick, Georgia  

• Cost of Living: 12% below U.S. average
• Population: 15,248
• Median Annual Income: $34,021
• Median Home Value: $128,300

With a population just over 15,000, Brunswick is one of the smaller towns on this list—but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in coastal charm. Nestled along Georgia’s southeastern shoreline, it’s the gateway to the Golden Isles and just a short drive from St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and other popular vacation spots. Seafood is a staple here, and it’s not uncommon to spot shrimp boats docked nearby or grab fresh catch at a local market.

Brunswick’s historic downtown is filled with Victorian-era architecture, art galleries, and independent shops that reflect the town’s creative streak. Life moves at a slower pace here, and that’s part of the appeal. With a cost of living 12% below the national average and home prices that remain affordable, Brunswick is a great fit for anyone drawn to salt air, Southern hospitality, and a quieter way of life.

#8: Dublin, Georgia 

• Cost of Living: 12% below U.S. average
• Population: 16,023
• Median Annual Income: $40,417
• Median Home Value: $173,500

Right in the heart of Middle Georgia, Dublin is a small city with a big sense of pride. With a population of just over 16,000, it offers a slower pace of life and a strong local identity fueled by community events and historic charm. Its downtown has also seen a quiet but meaningful revival in recent years. It’s the kind of place where people know their neighbors, and where annual traditions like the St. Patrick’s Festival bring everyone together.

Despite its size, Dublin punches above its weight when it comes to affordability and quality of life. The median home price hovers around $173,500, and the overall cost of living is 12% below the national average. Add in tree-lined streets, a growing food scene, and access to nearby parks and rivers, and it’s easy to see why Dublin continues to draw people looking for a peaceful, affordable place to plant roots.

#9: Valdosta, Georgia 

• Cost of Living: 11% below U.S. average
• Population: 55,222
• Median Annual Income: $45,849
• Median Home Value: $165,300

Down near the Georgia-Florida line, Valdosta has earned the nickname “Azalea City” for good reason: blooms light up the town every spring, and there’s no shortage of Southern greenery. The city is home to Valdosta State University, with a lively downtown, strong school spirit, and a growing arts and food scene that gives the city its own unique rhythm.

The cost of living in Valdosta is about 11% below the national average, and housing remains accessible, with median home prices around $165,000. Locals enjoy weekend trips to nearby rivers, parks, and even Florida beaches just a few hours’ drive away. Whether you’re planting roots or looking for a fresh start, Valdosta offers that rare mix of charm, culture, and affordability.

#10: Rome, Georgia 

• Cost of Living: 15% below U.S. average
• Population: 98,985
• Median Annual Income: $62,540
• Median Home Value: $194,100

Rome sits at the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where three rivers meet and wind through the city’s historic districts and scenic trails. It’s a place where natural beauty and Southern architecture coexist: brick downtown buildings, rolling hills, and riverwalks that make it easy to get outside and slow down.

Known for its medical and home to Berry College, Rome has a strong local economy and a reputation for being both welcoming and self-sustaining. The median home price is around $194,000, and the cost of living is 15% below the national average, making it an appealing option for those who want small-city life with big character and easy access to Georgia’s mountain region.

Should You Move to One of the Cheapest Places in Georgia?

If you’re looking for a more affordable place to live, you’re not alone. In fact, thousands of Americans are relocating so they can make their dollars stretch further—but the question is, how do you decide on which of these “cheapest places” to move to?

Well, it comes down to what you’re looking for in your new home. But if you’re hoping to find a great place to raise a family or elevate your career (without the long commutes that come with a bigger, more expensive city), Columbus, Georgia, might be right for you.

Columbus is Georgia’s second-largest city, but it doesn’t come with the second-largest price tag. You’ll find a thriving job market, a tight-knit community, and housing costs that stay well below the national average.

If you’re ready to learn more about living in Columbus, contact us here. Our team is here to help!